Forensic and Criminal Psychology

Intrigued by the criminal mind? Explore psychological theories behind criminal behaviour and how psychology can help us understand the criminal justice system and work effectively with offenders and support victims.

Understand criminal behaviour and discover how psychology has shaped the forensic field. Prepare to work in forensic psychology careers such as interventions and rehabilitation, therapeutic interventions and law enforcement, while enhancing your knowledge of the various stages of the criminal justice system.

• Industry-focused: specialist modules delve deeply into forensic psychology, aiming to prepare you for an exciting career in this fascinating field by applying psychological knowledge to real-world case studies and examples of real criminal behaviours.

• Modern curriculum: explore contemporary topics like the psychology of cybercrime, offender rehabilitation and international perspectives on crime.

• Applied learning: participate in engaging and immersive learning activities in our mock police custody suite and prison cells, and simulated trials in our mock courtroom.

Why you should study this course

Professional accreditation: successfully completing this course to the required standard of accreditation means you will be eligible for the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership of the British Psychological Society (BPS), which is necessary for further postgraduate study in psychology (including professional doctorates). See accreditation section for more information.

Career-focused: develop the skills required to embark on a career in forensic psychology, such as working effectively as part of a team, critical analysis and thinking, problem-solving, in addition to being able to communicate with different groups of people and understanding current debates and issues in forensic psychology.

Diverse voices: learn from a multidisciplinary teaching team from diverse backgrounds who aim to provide a comprehensive and well-rounded perspective on forensic psychology. The expert academic staff teaching this course have strong connections with industry professionals, offering you opportunities to engage with them through guest lectures and volunteer experiences.

Psychology in action: through problem-based learning, you will actively engage in real-world, meaningful projects. Work on complex problems in the realm of forensic psychology, create tangible solutions and develop essential skills such as critical thinking, collaboration and communication. This should showcase your expertise and readiness to make an impact in the world of forensic psychology.

Innovative learning tools and dedicated technicians: access a range of programmes to support your studies, including statistical and research methods software. Our dedicated psychology technicians are also on hand to support you in experiment design, data analysis and use of psychology lab equipment.

*For further information please check the course page on the Coventry University website.

Course Modules

This course has a common first year. The common first year enables you to work alongside students doing similar courses to you, to widen your knowledge and exposure to other subject areas and professions. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with other students, so you can share your insights and experience which will help you to develop and learn.

If you discover an interest in a specific subject you have studied, upon successful completion of your first year, you could swap degrees with another course in your common first year (subject to meeting progression requirements).

Year One Modules:
Biological Basis of Behaviour
The Psychology of Human Interaction
Mental Processes: From Thought to Action
Development Across the Lifespan

Year Two Modules:
Sciences of the Mind
Developing Self and Identity in the Social World
Forensic Cyber Psychology
Psychology in Forensic Contexts

Sandwich Year:
There’s no better way to find out what you love doing than trying it out for yourself, which is why a work placement2 can often be beneficial. Work placements usually occur between your second and final year of study. They are a great way to help you explore your potential career path and gain valuable work experience, whilst developing transferable skills for the future.

Final Year Modules:
Project Planning and Ethics
Independent Research Project
Forensic Risk and Rehabilitation

Optional modules:
Forensic Psychopathology
Aggression, Violence and Serious Offending

Availability of optional modules may vary depending on student demand.

Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.

• British Psychological Society